Methods for manufacturing pressure-mitigation apparatuses and using the same

ABSTRACT

Introduced here are pressure-mitigation apparatuses for mitigating the pressure applied to a human body by the support surface of an object. The pressure-mitigation apparatus can include a series of chambers that can be individually controlled to vary the pressure therein. By varying the chamber pressure, the main point of pressure applied by the support surface to the human body may be moved across the surface of the human body. An attachment apparatus may be used to securely adhere the pressure-mitigation apparatus to the support surface.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.17/495,072, filed Oct. 6, 2021, now U.S. Pat. No. 11,737,905, which is adivisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/363,094, filed Mar.25, 2019, which claims benefit of and priority to U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/647,551, filed on Mar. 23, 2018, U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/690,206, filed on Jun. 26, 2018,and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/736,758, filed on Sep.26, 2018, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in theirentireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present technology relates generally to apparatuses, systems, andmethods for enhancing perfusion and mitigating the contact pressureapplied to a human body by a support surface.

BACKGROUND

Pressure injuries (sometimes referred to as “decubitus ulcers,”“pressure ulcers,” “pressure sores,” or “bedsores”) typically occur as aresult of steady pressure applied in one location along a surface of thehuman body such as, for example, the sacrum. Pressure injuries are mostcommon in individuals who are mobility-impaired or immobilized (e.g., ina wheelchair or a bed, or on an operating table) for prolonged periodsof time. Oftentimes these individuals are older, malnourished, and/orincontinent, all factors that predispose the human body to pressureinjury formation. Because these individuals are often not ambulatory,they may sit or lie for prolonged periods of time in the same position.Moreover, these individuals often are unable to reposition themselves toalleviate the pressure. Consequently, the pressure on the skin and softtissue eventually causes ischemia or inadequate blood flow to the area,thereby resulting in breakdown of the skin and tissue damage. Pressureinjuries can result in a superficial injury to the skin, or a deeperfull-thickness ulcer that exposes underlying tissues and places theindividual at risk for infection. The resulting infection may worsen,leading to sepsis, or even death in some cases.

There are various pressure technologies on the market for preventingpressure injuries. However, conventional alternating-pressuretechnologies have many deficiencies, including the inability to controlthe spatial relationship between an individual and a support surface.Consequently, individuals using conventional alternating-pressuretechnologies may still develop pressure injuries or suffer from relatedcomplications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Many aspects of the present disclosure can be better understood withreference to the following drawings. The components in the drawings arenot necessarily to scale. Instead, emphasis is placed on clearlyillustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Furthermore,components may be shown as transparent in certain views for the purposeof illustration, rather than to indicate that the component isnecessarily transparent. Any headings provided herein are forconvenience only.

FIGS. 1A and 1B are top and bottom views, respectively, of apressure-mitigation apparatus configured in accordance with embodimentsof the present technology.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are top and bottom views of a pressure-mitigationapparatus configured in accordance with embodiments of the presenttechnology.

FIG. 3 is a top view of a pressure-mitigation apparatus configured inaccordance with embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 4 is a partially schematic top view of a pressure-mitigationapparatus illustrating varied pressure distributions for avoidingischemia for a mobility-impaired patient in accordance with embodimentsof the present technology.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a process for manufacturing apressure-mitigation apparatus in accordance with embodiments of thepresent technology.

FIG. 6 is a top view of an attachment apparatus for securing apressure-mitigation apparatus to a support surface in accordance withembodiments of the present technology

FIG. 7A-7C are top views of a left lateral portion, a central portion,and a right lateral portion, respectively, of the pressure-mitigationapparatus of FIG. 6 .

FIG. 8 is a top view of an attachment apparatus for securing apressure-mitigation apparatus to a support surface in accordance withembodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a process for manufacturing an attachmentapparatus in accordance with embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 10A is a partially schematic side view of a pressure-mitigationapparatus for relieving pressure on a specific anatomical region bychamber deflation in accordance with embodiments of the presenttechnology.

FIG. 10B is a partially schematic side view of a pressure-mitigationapparatus for relieving pressure on a specific anatomical by chamberinflation in accordance with embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 11 includes a side view of a pressure-mitigation system configuredin accordance with embodiments of the present technology.

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of a process for deploying apressure-mitigation system designed to prevent and/or addressischemia-reperfusion injuries in accordance with embodiments of thepresent technology.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a processingsystem in which at least some operations described herein can beimplemented.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Pressure injuries (also referred to a “pressure ulcers” or “ulcers”) arelocalized regions of damage to the skin and/or the underlying tissuethat result from contact pressure (or simply “pressure”) on thecorresponding anatomical region of the body. Pressure injuries oftenform over bony prominences, such as the skin and soft tissue overlyingthe sacrum, coccyx, heels, or hips. However, other sites (e.g., theelbows, knees, ankles, shoulders, abdomen, back, or cranium) may also beaffected. Generally, pressure injuries develop when pressure is appliedto blood vessels in soft tissue, which at least partially obstructsblood flow to the soft tissue (e.g., when the pressure exceeds thecapillary filling pressure) and causes ischemia at the pressure site foran extended duration. Therefore, pressure injuries often occur inindividuals who are mobility-impaired, immobilized, or sedentary forprolonged periods of times. Once a pressure injury forms, the healingprocess is typically slow. For example, when pressure is relieved fromthe site of the pressure injury, the body rushes blood (includingproinflammatory mediators) to that region to perfuse the area. Thesudden reperfusion of the damaged, previously ischemic region has beenshown to cause an inflammatory response, brought on by theproinflammatory mediators, that can actually worsen the originalpressure injury and prolong recovery. Further, depending on the patientand the pressure injury, the proinflammatory mediators may spreadthrough the blood stream beyond the site of the pressure injury to causea systematic inflammatory response. This secondary inflammatory responsecaused by the proinflammatory mediators has been shown to exacerbateexisting conditions or trigger additional ailments, thereby slowingrecovery. Moreover, recovery time can be prolonged by numerous factorsoften associated with individuals prone to pressure injuries, such asold age, immobility, preexisting medical conditions (e.g.,arteriosclerosis, diabetes, or infection), smoking, and/or medications(e.g., anti-inflammatory drugs). Thus, preventing or reducing pressureinjury formation (and reducing proinflammatory mediators) can enhanceand expedite many treatment processes for individuals, especially thosewho experience impaired mobility during the course of treatment.

Introduced here, therefore, are inflatable perfusion enhancementapparatuses for mitigating the pressure applied to a human body by thesupport surface of an object. The inflatable perfusion enhancementapparatus (also referred to as a “pressure-mitigation apparatus,” a“pressure-mitigation device,” or a “pressure-mitigation pad”) caninclude a series of chambers (also referred to as “cells”) whosepressure can be individually varied. By varying the pressure in theseries of chambers, the main point of pressure applied by the supportsurface to the human body may be moved across the surface of the humanbody. For example, following deployment of the pressure-mitigationapparatus, the main point of pressure may be moved amongst a pluralityof predetermined locations by sequentially varying the pressure indifferent predetermined subjects of chambers. The support surface (alsoreferred to as a “contact surface”) may be the surface of a chair, amattress, a stretcher, an operating table, or some other physical objecton which the individual places his or her weight.

A pressure-mitigation apparatus can include a first layer designed toface the support surface and a second layer designed to face the humanbody supported by the support surface. The series of chambers may beformed via interconnections between the first and second layers (e.g.,either directly or via one or more intermediary layers), and eachchamber may be independently pressurized via a discrete airflow.

Pressure-mitigation apparatuses may be designed based on the expectedphysical orientation of the human body during use. For example, somepressure-mitigation apparatuses have geometric arrangements of chamberssuitable for the dorsal side of the human body in a sitting position,while other pressure-mitigation apparatuses have geometric arrangementsof chambers suitable for the dorsal side of the human body in a supineand/or prone position. Moreover, a pressure-mitigation apparatus may bedesigned based on one or more characteristics of the individual(s) whoare expected to use the pressure-mitigation apparatus, such as size,weight, or physical ailment. For example, different pressure-mitigationapparatuses may be available for neonatal patients, pediatric patients,average adult patients, bariatric patients, or geriatric patients.

As further described below, a pressure-mitigation apparatus may be partof a pressure-mitigation system that also includes an attachmentapparatus, a controller device (also referred to as a “controller”), andone or more pumps. The attachment apparatus can ensure thepressure-mitigation apparatus is securely adhered to the supportsurface. The controller, meanwhile, can cause the pressure on one ormore anatomical regions of the human body to be varied by controllingthe flow of fluid (e.g., air) produced by the pump(s) into each chamberof the pressure-mitigation apparatus. For example, the controller maycontrollably inflate one or more chambers, deflate one or more chambers,or any combination thereof.

Specific details of several embodiments of the present technology aredescribed herein with reference to FIGS. 1-13 . Although many of theembodiments are described herein with respect to systems, apparatuses,and methods for alleviating the pressure applied to a human body (e.g.,a patient, individual, or subject) in a certain position (e.g., thesupine position) by a certain support surface (e.g., a mattress), otherembodiments in addition to those described herein are within the scopeof the present technology. For example, at least some embodiments of thepresent technology may be useful for alleviating the pressure applied toa human body in a sitting position. In such embodiments, the chambers ofthe pressure-mitigation apparatus may be different sizes, in differentarrangements, and/or otherwise differ from the chambers ofpressure-mitigation apparatuses for patients oriented in a supineposition. Additionally or alternatively, the chambers of thepressure-mitigation apparatus may be inflated in a different order, withdifferent pressures, for different durations, and/or otherwise have adifferent inflation pattern than those of pressure-mitigationapparatuses for patients oriented in a supine position.

It should be noted that other embodiments in addition to those disclosedherein are within the scope of the present technology. For example,components, configurations, and/or procedures shown or described withrespect to one embodiment can be combined with or replace thecomponents, configurations, and/or procedures described in otherembodiments. Further, embodiments of the present technology can havedifferent components, configurations, and/or procedures than those shownor described herein. Moreover, a person of ordinary skill in the artwill understand that embodiments of the present technology can haveconfigurations, components, and/or procedures in addition to those shownor described herein, and that these and other embodiments can be withoutseveral of the configurations, components, and/or procedures shown ordescribed herein without deviating from the present technology.

Selected Embodiments of Pressure-Mitigation Apparatuses

A pressure-mitigation apparatus includes a plurality of chambers orcompartments that can be individually controlled to vary the pressure ineach chamber and/or a subset of the chambers. When placed between ahuman body and a support surface, the pressure-mitigation apparatus canvary the pressure on an anatomical region by controllably inflating oneor more chambers, deflating one or more chambers, or any combinationthereof. Several examples of pressure-mitigation apparatuses aredescribed below with respect to FIGS. 1A-3 . Unless otherwise noted, anyfeatures described with respect to one embodiment are equally applicableto the other embodiments. Some features have only been described withrespect to a single embodiment of the pressure-mitigation apparatus forthe purpose of simplifying the present disclosure.

FIGS. 1A and 1B are top and bottom views, respectively, of apressure-mitigation apparatus 100 for relieving pressure on a specificanatomical region applied by an elongated support surface in accordancewith embodiments of the present technology. The pressure-mitigationapparatus 100 can be used in conjunction with elongated supportsurfaces, such as mattresses, stretchers, operating tables, andprocedure tables. In some embodiments the pressure-mitigation apparatus100 is secured to a support surface using an attachment apparatus, whilein other embodiments the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 is placed indirect contact with the support surface (i.e., without any attachmentapparatus therebetween). Attachment apparatuses are further describedbelow with respect to FIGS. 6-8 .

As shown in FIG. 1A, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 can include acentral portion 102 (also referred to as a “contact portion”) positionedalongside at least one side support 104. Here, a pair of side supports104 are arranged on opposing sides of the central portion 102. However,some embodiments of the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 do not includeany side supports. For example, the side support(s) 104 may be omittedwhen the individual is medically immobilized (e.g., under anesthesia, ina medically induced coma, etc.) and/or physically restrained by theunderlying support surface (e.g., by rails along the side of a bed,armrests along the side of a chair) and/or other structures (e.g.,physical restraints holding down the patient, casts, etc.).

The pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 includes a series of chambers 106(also referred to as “cells”) whose pressure can be individually varied.In some embodiments, the series of chambers 106 are arranged in ageometric pattern designed to relieve pressure on one or more specificanatomical regions of a human body. As noted above, when placed betweenthe human body and a support surface, the pressure-mitigation apparatus100 can vary the pressure on the specific anatomical region(s) bycontrollably inflating chamber(s), deflating chamber(s), or anycombination thereof.

In some embodiments, the geometric pattern is designed to mitigatepressure on a specific anatomical region when the specific anatomicalregion is oriented over a target region 108 of the geometric pattern. Asshown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the target region 108 may represent a centralpoint or portion of the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 toappropriately position the person's anatomy with respect to thepressure-mitigation apparatus 100. For example, the target region 108may correspond to an epicenter of the geometric pattern. However, thetarget region 108 may not necessarily be the central point of thepressure-mitigation apparatus 100, particularly if thepressure-mitigation apparatus 100 is not symmetric. The target region108 may be marked so that an individual (e.g., a physician, nurse,caregiver, or the patient himself or herself) can readily align thetarget region 108 with a corresponding anatomical region of the humanbody to be positioned thereon.

The pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 can include a first portion 110(also referred to as a “first layer” or a “bottom layer”) designed toface a support surface and a second portion 112 (also referred to as a“second layer” or a “top layer”) designed to face the human bodysupported by the support surface. In some embodiments the first portion110 is directly adjacent to the support surface, while in otherembodiments the first portion 110 is directly adjacent to an attachmentapparatus designed to help secure the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100to the support surface. The pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 may beconstructed of a variety of materials, and the material(s) used in theconstruction of each component of the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100may be chosen based on the nature of the body contact, if any, to beexperienced by the component. For example, because the second portion112 will often be in direct contact with the skin, it may be comprisedof a soft fabric or a breathable fabric (e.g., comprised ofmoisture-wicking materials or quick-drying materials, or havingperforations). In some embodiments, an impervious lining (e.g.,comprised of polyurethane) is secured to the inside of the secondportion 112 to inhibit fluid (e.g., sweat) from entering the series ofchambers 106. As another example, if the pressure-mitigation apparatus100 is designed for deployment beneath a cover (e.g., a bed sheet), thenthe second portion 112 may be comprised of a liquid-impervious, flexiblematerial, such as polyurethane, polypropylene, silicone, or a rubbercompound. The first portion 110 may also be comprised of aliquid-impervious, flexible material.

The series of chambers 106 may be formed via interconnections betweenthe first and second portions 110, 112 (e.g., either directly or via oneor more intermediary layers). In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1Aand 1B, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 includes an “M-shaped”chamber intertwined with two “C-shaped” chambers that face one another.Such an arrangement has been shown to effectively mitigate the pressureapplied to the sacral region of a human body in the supine position by asupport surface when the pressure in these chambers is alternated. Apressure-mitigation apparatus may have another arrangement of chambersif the pressure-mitigation apparatus is designed for an anatomicalregion other than the sacral region, or if the pressure-mitigationapparatus is to be used to support a human body in a non-supine position(e.g., a sitting position). Generally, the geometric pattern of thechambers 106 is designed based on the internal anatomy (e.g., themuscles, bones, and vasculature) of a specific anatomical region onwhich pressure is to be relieved.

The person using the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 and/or thecaregiver (e.g., a nurse, physician, etc.) will often be responsible foractively orienting the anatomical region of the patient lengthwise overthe target region 108 of the geometric pattern. However, the sidesupport(s) 104 may actively orient or guide the specific anatomicalregion of the human body laterally over the target region 108 of thegeometric pattern. In some embodiments the side support(s) 104 areinflatable, while in other embodiments the side support(s) 104 arepermanent structures that protrude from one or both lateral sides of thepressure-mitigation device 100. For example, at least a portion of eachside support may be stuffed with cotton, latex, polyurethane foam, orany combination thereof.

A controller (not shown) can separately control the pressure in eachchamber (as well as the side supports 104, if included) by providing adiscrete airflow via one or more corresponding valves 114. Such acontroller is described in further detail with respect to FIGS. 10A-11In some embodiments, the valves 114 are permanently secured to thepressure-mitigation apparatus 100 and designed to interface with tubingthat can be readily detached (e.g., for easier transport, storage,etc.). Here, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 includes five valves114. Three valves are fluidly coupled to the series of chambers 106, andtwo valves are fluidly coupled to the side supports 104. In otherembodiments, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 includes more thanfive valves 114 and/or less than five valves 114.

In some embodiments, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 includes oneor more structural feature(s) 116 a-c that enhance securement of thepressure-mitigation apparatus 100 to a support surface and/or anattachment apparatus. As illustrated in FIG. 1B, for example, thepressure-mitigation apparatus 100 can include three design feature(s)116 a-c, each of which can be aligned with a corresponding structuralfeature that is accessible along the support surface or the attachmentapparatus. For example, each design feature 116 a-c may be designed toat least partially envelope a structural feature that protrudes upward.The design feature(s) 116 a-c may also facilitate proper alignment ofthe pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 with the support surface or theattachment apparatus.

FIGS. 2A and 2B are top and bottom views, respectively, of apressure-mitigation apparatus 200 for relieving pressure on a specificanatomical region applied by a support surface in accordance withembodiments of the present technology. The pressure-mitigation apparatus200 can be used in conjunction with nonelongated support surfaces thatsupport individuals in a seated or partially erect position, such aschairs (e.g., office chairs, examination chairs, recliners, andwheelchairs) and the seats included in vehicles and airplanes. As such,the pressure-mitigation apparatus 200 will often be positioned atopsupport surfaces that have side supports integrated into the supportitself (e.g., the side arms of a recliner or wheelchair). In someembodiments the pressure-mitigation apparatus 200 is secured to asupport surface using an attachment apparatus, while in otherembodiments the attachment apparatus is omitted such that thepressure-mitigation apparatus 200 directly contacts the underlyingsupport surface.

The pressure-mitigation apparatus 200 can include various featuresgenerally similar to the features of the pressure-mitigation device 100described above with respect to FIGS. 1A and 1B. For example, thepressure-mitigation apparatus 200 may include a first portion 202 (alsoreferred to as a “first layer” or a “bottom layer”) designed to face thesupport surface, a second portion 204 (also referred to as a “secondlayer” or a “top layer”) designed to face the human body supported bythe support surface, and a plurality of chambers 206 formed viainterconnections between the first and second portions 202, 204. In thisembodiment, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 200 includes an “M-shaped”chamber 206 intertwined with a backward “J-shaped” chamber 206 and abackward “C-shaped” chamber 206. The alternating inflation/deflation ofsuch an arrangement of chambers 206 has been shown to effectivelymitigate the pressure applied by a support surface to the sacral regionwhen the human body is in a seated position.

The individual inflation/deflation of these chambers 206 can beperformed in a predetermined pattern and to predetermined pressurelevels. In some embodiments, for example, the individual chambers 206can be inflated to higher pressure levels than the chambers 206 of thepressure-mitigation apparatus 100 described with respect to FIGS. 1A and1B because the human body supported by the pressure-mitigation apparatus200 is in a seated position, thereby applying more pressure on thepressure-mitigation apparatus 200 than if the human body were supine orprone. Further, unlike the pressure mitigation device 100 of FIGS. 1Aand 1B, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 200 of FIGS. 2A and 2B doesnot include side supports. As noted above, side supports may be omittedwhen the structure on which the individual is seated or reclined alreadyprovides components that laterally center the individual (e.g., railsalong the side of a bed, armrests along the side of a chair), as isoften the case with nonelongated support surfaces.

As further described below with respect to FIGS. 10A-11 , a controllercan control the pressure in each chamber 206 by providing a discreteairflow via one or more corresponding valves 208. Here, thepressure-mitigation apparatus 200 includes three valves 208, and each ofthe three valves 208 corresponds to a single chamber 206. In otherembodiments, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 200 may include onevalve, two valves, or more than three valves, and each valve can beassociated with a specific chamber for individually controlled inflationand/or deflation of that chamber. In these and other embodiments, asingle valve 208 can be fluidly coupled to two or more chambers 206. Inthese and other embodiments, a single chamber 206 can be in fluidcommunication with two or more valves 208 (e.g., one valve for inflationand another valve for deflation).

Similar to the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 described with respectto FIGS. 1A and 1B, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 200 of FIGS. 2Aand 2B includes a target region 210 over which a specific anatomicalregion can be positioned. Generally, the chambers 206 are arranged in ageometric pattern that is designed to mitigate pressure on the specificanatomical region. In some embodiments, the target region 210 representsa central point or portion of the pressure-mitigation apparatus 200.However, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the geometric pattern of chambers206 may not be symmetric with respect to the x-axis or y-axis thatextend through the target region 210.

FIG. 3 is a top view of a pressure-mitigation apparatus 300 forrelieving pressure on a specific anatomical region applied by awheelchair in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. Thepressure-mitigation apparatus 300 can include various features generallysimilar to the features of the pressure-mitigation apparatus 200 ofFIGS. 2A and 2B and the pressure-mitigation apparatus 100 of FIGS. 1Aand 1B described above. For example, the pressure-mitigation apparatus300 can include a first portion 302 (also referred to as a “first layer”or a “bottom layer”) designed to face the seat of the wheelchair (i.e.,the support surface), a second portion 304 (also referred to as a“second layer” or a “top layer”) designed to face the human bodysupported by the seat of the wheelchair, a plurality of chambers 306formed by interconnections between the first and second portions 302,304, and a plurality of valves 308 that control the flow of fluid intoand/or out of the chambers 306. In some embodiments the first portion302 is directly adjacent to the seat of the wheelchair, while in otherembodiments the first portion 302 is directly adjacent to an attachmentapparatus. As shown in FIG. 3 , the pressure-mitigation apparatus 300may include an “M-shaped” chamber 306 intertwined with a “U-shaped”chamber 306 and a “C-shaped” chamber 306, which are inflated anddeflated in accordance with a predetermined pattern to mitigate thepressure applied to the sacral region of a human body in a sittingposition on the seat of a wheelchair.

FIG. 4 is a partially schematic top view of a pressure-mitigationapparatus 400 illustrating varied pressure distributions for avoidingischemia for a mobility-impaired patient in accordance with embodimentsof the present technology. As discussed above, when a human body issupported by a contact surface 402 for an extended duration, pressureinjuries may form in tissue overlaying bony prominences, such as theskin overlying the sacrum, coccyx, heels, or hips. These bonyprominences often represent the location or locations at which the mostpressure is applied by the contact surface 402 and, therefore, may bereferred to as the “main pressure point(s)” along the surface of thehuman body. To prevent the formation of pressure injuries, healthyindividuals periodically make minor positional adjustments (also knownas “micro-adjustments”) to shift the location of the main pressurepoint. However, individuals having impaired mobility often cannot makethese micro-adjustments by themselves. Mobility impairment may be due tophysical injury (e.g., a traumatic injury or a progressive injury),movement limitations (e.g., within a vehicle, on an aircraft, or inrestraints), medical procedures (e.g., those requiring anesthesia),and/or other conditions that limit an individual's natural movement. Forthese mobility-impaired individuals, the pressure-mitigation apparatus400 can be used to shift the location of the main pressure point(s) ontheir behalf. That is, the pressure mitigation apparatus 400 can createmoving pressure gradients to avoid sustained, localized vascularcompression and enhance tissue perfusion

As shown in FIG. 4 , the pressure-mitigation apparatus 400 can include aseries of chambers 404 (also referred to as “cells”) whose pressure canbe individually varied. The chambers 404 may be formed byinterconnections between a first or bottom layer and a second or toplayer of the pressure-mitigation apparatus 400. The top layer may becomprised of a first material (e.g., an air-permeable, non-irritatingmaterial) configured for direct contact with a human body, while thebottom layer may be comprised of a second material (e.g., anon-air-permeable, gripping material) configured for direct contact withthe contact surface 402 or an attachment apparatus. In these and otherembodiments, the top layer and/or the bottom layer can be comprised ofmore than one material, such as a coated fabric or a stack ofinterconnected materials.

A pump, such as the pressure device described below with respect to FIG.11 , can be fluidly coupled to each chamber 404 (e.g., via acorresponding inlet valve), while a controller, such as the controllerdescribed below with respect to FIG. 11 , may control the flow of fluid(e.g., air) generated by the pump into each chamber 404 on an individualbasis in accordance with a predetermined pattern. As further describedbelow, the pump and controller can operate the series of chambers 404 inseveral different ways. In some embodiments, the chambers 404 have anaturally deflated state, and the controller causes the pump to inflateat least one of the chambers 404 to shift the main pressure point alongthe anatomy of the user. For example, the pump may inflate at least oneof the chambers 404 located directly beneath an anatomical region tomomentarily apply contact pressure to that anatomical region and relievethe contact pressure on the surrounding anatomical regions adjacent tothe deflated chamber(s) 404. In these and other implementations, thecontroller may cause the pump to inflate two or more chambers 404adjacent to an anatomical region to create an open space or void beneaththe anatomical region to shift the main pressure point at leastmomentarily away from the anatomical region. In other embodiments, thechambers 404 have a naturally inflated state, and the controller causesthe pump to deflate at least one of the chambers 404 to shift the mainpressure point along the anatomy of the user. For example, the pump maybe configured to deflate at least one of the chambers 404 locateddirectly beneath an anatomical region, thereby forming a void beneaththe anatomical region to momentarily relieve the contact pressure on theanatomical region. Whether configured in a naturally deflated state or anaturally inflated state, the continuous or intermittent alteration ofthe inflation levels of the individual chambers 404 moves the locationof the main pressure point across different portions of the human body.As shown in FIG. 4 , for example, inflating and/or deflating thechambers 404 creates temporary contact regions 406 that move across thepressure-mitigation apparatus 400 in a predetermined pattern, andthereby change the location of the main pressure point(s) on the humanbody for finite intervals of time. Thus, the pressure-mitigationapparatus 400 can simulate the micro-adjustments made by mobileindividuals to relieve stagnant pressure application caused by thecontact surface 402.

As noted above, the series of chambers 404 may be arranged in ananatomy-specific pattern so that when the pressure within one or moreindividual chambers is altered, the contact pressure on a specificanatomical region of the human body is relieved (e.g., by shifting themain pressure point elsewhere). As shown in FIG. 4 , for example, themain pressure point can be moved between eight different locationscorresponding to the eight temporary contact regions 406. In someembodiments the main pressure point shifts between these locations in apredictable manner (e.g., in a clockwise or counter-clockwise pattern),while in other embodiments the main pressure point shifts between theselocations in an unpredictable manner (e.g., in accordance with a randompattern, a semi-random pattern, and/or detected pressure levels). Thoseskilled in the art will recognize that the quantity and position ofthese temporary contact regions 406 may vary based on the arrangement ofthe series of chambers 404, the anatomical region supported by thepressure-mitigation apparatus 400, the characteristics of the human bodysupported by the pressure mitigation apparatus 400, and/or the conditionof the user (e.g., whether the user is completely immobilized, partiallyimmobilized, etc.).

In some embodiments, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 400 does notinclude side supports because the condition of the user (also referredto as a “patient”) may not benefit from the positioning provided by theside supports. For example, side supports can be omitted when thepatient is medically immobilized (e.g., under anesthesia, in a medicallyinduced coma, etc.) and/or physically restrained by the underlyingsupport surface (e.g., rails along the side of a bed, arm rests on theside of a chair) and/or other structures (e.g., physically restraintsholding down the patient, casts, etc.).

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of a process 500 for manufacturing apressure-mitigation apparatus in accordance with embodiments of thepresent technology. Initially, an entity (also referred to as a“manufacturer”) can acquire a first sheet comprised of a first material(step 501). The first material may be, for example, an air-permeable,non-irritating material that permits the first sheet to maintain directcontact with a human body for an extended period of time (e.g., severalhours) without issue. The first material may also be impervious toliquid. In some embodiments, the manufacturer may form perforations inthe first sheet. If the first material is impervious to liquid, theperforations allow for the passage of liquid (e.g., sweat) that maycause irritation. If the first material is not impervious to liquid, theperforations allow for the passage of air to facilitate drying of thefirst material.

The manufacturer can also acquire a second sheet comprised of a secondmaterial (step 502). The second material may be, for example, anon-air-permeable, gripping material that can maintain direct contactwith either a support surface or an attachment apparatus without issue.The second material may provide some tackiness to prevent slippage. Saidanother way, the second material may be designed to promote staticfriction (also referred to as “stiction”) between thepressure-mitigation apparatus and the support surface, thereby limitingrelative motion of these objects that are in contact with one another.Generally, the second material is impervious to liquid, though thesecond material is pervious to liquid in some embodiments (e.g., whenfrequent replacement of the pressure-mitigation apparatus is likely).Much like the first sheet, the manufacturer may form perforations in thesecond sheet to enable the passage of fluid (e.g., sweat, water, orair).

Then, the manufacturer can create a cavity by forming an interconnectionalong the periphery of the first and second sheets (step 503). Theinterconnection can be formed in several different ways. For example, ifthe first and second sheets are comprised of thermoplastic(s), then thefirst and second sheets can be welded together through the applicationof heat along the periphery. As another example, the first and secondsheets may be secured to one another using an adhesive. Similarly, themanufacturer can create a geometric pattern of chambers by formingadditional interconnections between the first and second sheets (step504). Generally, the geometric pattern of the chambers is designed basedon the internal anatomy (e.g., the muscles, bones, and vasculature) of aspecific anatomical region on which pressure is to be relieved by thepressure-mitigation apparatus. For example, some geometric patterns ofchambers are suitable for the dorsal side of a human body in a sittingposition, while other geometric patterns of chambers are suitable forthe dorsal side of the human body in a supine and/or prone position. Thepattern of chambers (or the chambers themselves) may also be designedbased on one or more characteristics of the individual(s) who areexpected to use the pressure-mitigation apparatus, such as size, weight,or physical ailment. For example, different pressure-mitigationapparatuses may be available for neonatal patients, pediatric patients,average adult patients, bariatric patients, or geriatric patients.

In some embodiments, the manufacturer applies a coating the first sheetand/or the second sheet (step 505). For example, the manufacturer mayapply a non-slip coating to the second sheet to ensure thepressure-mitigation apparatus can be secured to either the supportsurface or the attachment apparatus. As another example, themanufacturer may apply an antimicrobial coating to the first sheetand/or the second sheet to provide protection against fungi, mold, andbacteria.

Selected Embodiments of Attachment Apparatuses

An attachment apparatus is a device that securely attaches apressure-mitigation apparatus (e.g., the pressure-mitigation apparatuses100, 200, 300, 400 described above with respect to FIGS. 1A-4 ) to asupport surface, such as a mattress, table, recliner, wheelchair, and/oranother type of support surface. The attachment apparatus can besecured, either permanently or temporarily, to the support surface, andthe pressure-mitigation apparatus can be secured, either permanently ortemporarily, to the attachment apparatus. As such, the attachmentapparatus can more accurately and effectively secure thepressure-mitigation apparatus in its optimum/proper position in relationto an anatomical region of a human body. Several examples of attachmentapparatuses are described below with respect to FIGS. 6-8 . Unlessotherwise noted, any features described with respect to one embodimentare equally applicable to the other embodiments. Some features have onlybeen described with respect to a single embodiment of the attachmentapparatus for the purpose of simplifying the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a top view of an attachment apparatus 600 (also referred to asan “attachment device” or an “attachment mechanism”) for securing apressure-mitigation apparatus to a support surface in accordance withembodiments of the present technology. The embodiment illustrated inFIG. 6 is generally used to secure pressure-mitigation apparatuses toelongated support surfaces, while the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8is generally used to secure pressure-mitigation apparatuses tononelongated support surfaces. However, all of the attachmentapparatuses described herein could be secured to support surfaces ofvarying lengths, widths, and/or thicknesses. Examples of elongatedsupport surfaces include mattresses, stretchers, operating tables, andprocedure tables. Examples of nonelongated support surfaces includechairs (e.g., office chairs, examination chairs, recliners, andwheelchairs) and the seats included in vehicles and airplanes.

The attachment apparatus 600 includes a first portion 602 (also referredto as a “first side”) designed to face a support surface and a secondportion 604 (also referred to as a “second side”) designed to face apressure-mitigation apparatus. The first portion 602 is arrangedopposite the second portion 604, though one or more intermediary layersmay be disposed between the first and second portions 602, 604. In someembodiments, the first and second portions 602, 604 represent opposingsides of a component comprised of a single material. For example, theattachment apparatus 600 may be entirely comprised of polyurethane,polypropylene, silicone, or a rubber compound. As another example, theattachment apparatus 600 may be comprised of a sealed, non-porousmaterial to reduce the risk of biohazard contamination and improveinfection control. In other embodiments, the first and second portions602, 604 represent opposing sides of a stack of interconnectedmaterials, such as a core material (e.g., comprised of polyurethanefoam, polyethylene foam, latex, wool, cotton, woven fabric(s), non-wovenfabric(s), natural fibers, or synthetic fibers), a covering (e.g.,comprised of a natural fabric or a synthetic fabric), and/or a coating.For example, the attachment apparatus 600 may include a polyurethanefoam core encapsulated by a silicon rubber coating.

In some embodiments, the first portion 602 and/or the second portion 604can be comprised of at least one adhesive or non-slip material thatprovides some tackiness. Thus, the first portion 602 and/or the secondportion 604 may be designed to promote stiction, thereby limitingrelative motion of the pressure-mitigation apparatus in relation to thesupport surface. For example, a non-slip material that defines an outersurface of the attachment apparatus 600 may include silicone rubber withsufficient tackiness to limit movement of a pressure-mitigationapparatus with respect to a support surface. However, the first andsecond portions 602, 604 need not be comprised of the same non-slipmaterial(s). For example, the first portion 602 may include a non-slipfilm, coating, or tape designed to ensure the attachment apparatus 600is fixedly secured to the support surface, while the second portion 604may rely on the tackiness provided by silicone rubber to secure thepressure-mitigation apparatus. Accordingly, a pressure-mitigationapparatus may be readily detachable from the attachment apparatus 600.As noted below, however, in some embodiments, the pressure-mitigationapparatus may be permanently secured to the attachment apparatus 600(e.g., by an adhesive, heat and/or pressure, etc.).

Additionally or alternatively, the attachment apparatus 600 may includeone or more openings 606 through which securement components (not shown)can extend to connect the attachment apparatus 600 to the underlyingsupport surface. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, theattachment apparatus 600 includes two openings 606 along its upperperiphery that are designed to accept securement components (e.g.,hooks, snaps, or tabs) associated with the support surface or thepressure-mitigation device. Other components could be used in additionto, or instead of, the opening(s) 606 to secure the attachment apparatus600 to the support surface or the pressure-mitigation device. Forexample, the attachment apparatus 600 may include one or more magnetsthat are positioned in a predetermined arrangement. In such embodiments,when the attachment apparatus 600 is brought within close proximity ofthe support surface, magnet(s) may be attracted to magneticallycomplementary object(s) connected to, or embedded within, the supportsurface. Similarly, when the attachment apparatus 600 is brought withinclose proximity of the pressure-mitigation apparatus, magnet(s) may beattracted to magnetically complementary object(s) connected to, orembedded within, the pressure-mitigation apparatus.

As shown in FIG. 6 , the attachment apparatus 600 can include a centralportion 608 disposed between opposing lateral portions 610, which may beidentified individually as a first lateral portion 610 a (also referredto as a “left lateral portion”) and a second lateral portion 610 b (alsoreferred to as a “right lateral portion”). FIGS. 7A-7C are top views ofthe left lateral portion 610 a, the central portion 608, and the rightlateral portion 610 b, respectively. To secure the attachment apparatus600 to a support surface, an individual can wrap the lateral portions610 at least partially around the support surface. For example, tosecure the attachment apparatus 600 to a hospital bed, the lateralportions 610 may be secured along the underside of the hospital bed. Insuch embodiments, at least part of each lateral portion 610 may bearranged roughly parallel to the central portion 608. As anotherexample, to secure the attachment apparatus 600 to a mattress, thelateral portions 610 may be secured along opposing sides of themattress. In such embodiments, each lateral portion 610 may be arrangedroughly perpendicular to the central portion 608. Some embodiments ofthe attachment apparatus 600 do not include the lateral portions 610.

FIG. 8 is a top view of an attachment apparatus 800 for securing apressure-mitigation apparatus to a support surface in accordance withembodiments of the present technology. Similar to the attachmentapparatus 600 of FIGS. 6-7C, the attachment apparatus 800 of FIG. 8includes a first portion 802 (also referred to as a “first side”)designed to face the support surface and a second portion 804 (alsoreferred to as a “second side”) designed to face the pressure-mitigationapparatus. In some embodiments the first and second portions 802, 804represent opposing sides of a component comprised of a single material,while in other embodiments the first and second portions 802, 804represent opposing sides of a stack of at least partially interconnectedmaterials. The first portion 802 and/or the second portion 804 can becomprised of at least one non-slip material to provide some degree oftackiness to at least partially secure the overlying pressure-mitigationapparatus to the underlying support surface.

In contrast to the attachment apparatus 600 of FIG. 6 , however, theattachment apparatus 800 of FIG. 8 does not include opposing lateralportions. Instead, the attachment apparatus 800 may be designed suchthat it can fit entirely within the bounds of the support surface. Sucha design may be particularly useful for those support surfaces that havecomponents arranged along their periphery and/or other features thatmake it difficult to secure or tuck in a lateral portion around theside(s) of the support surface. One example of such a support surface isa wheelchair that has a back portion arranged orthogonal to rear edge ofthe seat and opposing side features (e.g., clothing guards and/oropposing arms) adjacent to the lateral edges of the seat. In thisexample, the periphery of the seat (i.e., the support surface) isbounded on three edges, and the attachment apparatus 800 can be laiddirectly onto the seat of the wheelchair. The attachment apparatus 800can be used with other seat-like structures, such as recliners, airplaneseats, and automobile seats, as well as elongated support surfaces, suchas mattresses, stretchers, operating tables, and procedure tables. Insome embodiments the attachment apparatus 800 can include connectionfeatures, such as snaps, hooks, or holes, that can interface withanother component of the support surface to secure the attachmentapparatus 800 to the underlying support surface.

The attachment apparatus 600 of FIG. 6 and the attachment apparatus 800of FIG. 8 can be designed to accommodate pressure-mitigation apparatusesof various widths, lengths, and thicknesses. For example, in variousembodiments the attachment apparatus may have a width of 12-18 inches(30.5-45.7 cm), a length of 20-72 inches (50.8-182.9 cm), and athickness of 0.5-2 inches (1.3-5.1 cm). In these and other embodiments,the attachment apparatus may have a larger or smaller width, length,and/or thickness to accommodate the desired attachment side andpressure-mitigation apparatus attached thereto. Generally, the surfacesof an attachment apparatus will be substantially planar to allow foreasier cleaning (e.g., between patients). However, in some embodiments,at least surface of the attachment apparatus may be textured to conformwith certain support surfaces (e.g., textured mattresses).

Those skilled in the art will recognize that attachment apparatusescould take forms other than those shown and described with respect toFIGS. 6-8 . For example, an attachment apparatus may take the form of anoblong rectangle having a length-to-width ratio of at least two, atleast three, or at least five. In such embodiments, an individual couldsecure multiple attachment apparatuses along the support surface inseries of rows or columns. As another example, an attachment apparatusmay take the form of a frame having a central opening. In someembodiments the pressure-mitigation apparatus is permitted to contactthe support surface through the central opening (e.g., due to the forceapplied to the pressure-mitigation apparatus by the human body arrangedthereon), while in other embodiments the pressure-mitigation apparatusis sufficiently rigid to ensure that a gap remains between thepressure-mitigation apparatus and the support surface.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram of a process 900 for manufacturing anattachment apparatus in accordance with embodiments of the presenttechnology. Initially, an entity (also referred to as a “manufacturer”)can acquire a roll of material capable of being formed into anattachment apparatus (step 901). The material may be, for example,polyurethane, polypropylene, silicone, or a rubber compound.

Thereafter, the manufacturer can cut the material to form at least oneattachment apparatus (step 902). As noted above, the attachmentapparatus may take various forms, so the manufacturer may cut the rollof material into multiple rectangular segments, square segments, orelliptical segments.

In some embodiments, the upper surface and/or the lower surface of theattachment apparatus is comprised of a material, such as siliconerubber, with sufficient tackiness to naturally limit movement of theattachment apparatus. In other embodiments, the manufacturer applies anadhesive coating to the upper surface and/or the lower surface of theattachment apparatus (step 903). In such embodiments, the manufacturermay cover the adhesive coating with a cover or a film that must beremoved before the attachment apparatus is secured to a support surface,or before a pressure-mitigation apparatus is secured to the attachmentapparatus.

Other steps may also be included in some embodiments. For example, someembodiments of attachment apparatuses are comprised of a stack ofinterconnected materials. Thus, the attachment apparatus may include oneor more intermediary layers disposed between a top layer for interfacingwith the pressure-mitigation apparatus and a bottom layer forinterfacing with the support surface. The intermediary layer(s) may becomprised of polyurethane foam, polyethylene foam, latex, wool, cotton,woven fabric(s), non-woven fabric(s), natural fibers, or syntheticfibers.

Selected Embodiments of Pressure-Mitigation Systems

A pressure-mitigation apparatus may be part of a pressure-mitigationsystem that also includes an attachment apparatus, a controller device(also referred to as a “controller”), and one or more pumps. Theattachment apparatus can ensure the pressure-mitigation apparatus issecurely adhered to the support surface. The controller, meanwhile, cancause the pressure on one or more anatomical regions of the human bodyto be varied by controlling the flow of fluid (e.g., air) produced bythe pump(s) into each chamber of the pressure-mitigation apparatus. Forexample, the controller may controllably inflate one or more chambers,deflate one or more chambers, or any combination thereof.

FIG. 10A is a partially schematic side view of a pressure-mitigationapparatus 1002 a for relieving pressure on a specific anatomical regionby chamber deflation in accordance with embodiments of the presenttechnology. The pressure-mitigation apparatus 1002 a can be positionedbetween a contact surface 1000 (also referred to as a “support surface”)and a human body 1004 and, to relieve pressure on a specific anatomicalregion of the human body 1004, at least one chamber 1008 a of aplurality of chambers (referred to collectively as “chambers 1008”)proximate to the specific anatomical region at least partially deflatesto create an open region or void 1006 a beneath the specific anatomicalregion. In such embodiments, the remaining chambers 1008 may remaininflated. Thus, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 1002 a maysequentially deflate chambers 1008 (or arrangements of multiplechambers) to relieve the contact pressure applied to the human body 1004by the contact surface 1000.

FIG. 10B is a partially schematic side view of a pressure-mitigationapparatus 1002 b for relieving pressure on a specific anatomical bychamber inflation in accordance with embodiments of the presenttechnology. For example, to relieve pressure at a specific anatomicalregion of the human body 1004, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 1002 bcan inflate two chambers 1008 b and 1008 c disposed directly adjacent tothe specific anatomical region to create a void 1006 b beneath thespecific anatomical region. In such embodiments, the remaining chambersmay remain at least partially deflated. Thus, the pressure-mitigationapparatus 1002 b may sequentially inflate a chamber (or arrangements ofmultiple chambers) to relieve the contact pressure applied to the humanbody 1004 by the contact surface 1000.

The pressure-mitigation apparatuses 1002 a, 1002 b of FIGS. 10A and 10Bare shown to be in direct contact with the contact surface 1000.However, in some embodiments, an attachment apparatus is positionedbetween the pressure-mitigation apparatuses 1002 a, 1002 b and thecontact surface 1000.

In some embodiments, the pressure-mitigation apparatuses 1002 a, 1002 bof FIGS. 10A and 10B can have the same configuration of chambers 1008,and the pressure-mitigation apparatuses 1002 a, 1002 b can operate inboth a normally inflated state (described with respect to FIG. 10A) anda normally deflated state (described with respect to FIG. 10B) based ona selection made by an operator (e.g., a medical professional or theuser). For example, the operator can use a controller to select anormally deflated mode such that the pressure-mitigation device operatesas described with respect to FIG. 10A, and then change the mode ofoperation to a normally inflated mode such that the pressure-mitigationdevice operates as described with respect to FIG. 10B. Thus, thepressure-mitigation apparatuses disclosed herein can shift the locationof the main pressure point by controllably inflating chambers,controllably deflating chambers, or a combination thereof.

FIG. 11 includes a side view of a pressure-mitigation system 1100 (alsoreferred to as “the system 1100”) for orienting an individual 1102 overa pressure-mitigation apparatus 1106 in accordance with embodiments ofthe present technology. The system 1100 can include apressure-mitigation apparatus 1106 that include side supports 1108, anattachment apparatus 1104, a pressure device 1114, and a controller1112. The attachment apparatus 1104 may be responsible for securing thepressure-mitigation apparatus 1106 to the support surface 1116. Furtherexamples of the pressure-mitigation apparatus are discussed in detailwith respect to FIGS. 1-3 , and further examples of the attachmentapparatus are discussed in detail with respect to FIGS. 6-8 .

In this embodiment, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 1106 includes apair of elevated side supports 1108 that extend longitudinally alongopposing sides of the pressure-mitigation apparatus 1106. Thepressure-mitigation apparatus 1106 includes a series of chambersinterconnected on a base material. As further described above, thechambers may be arranged in a geometric pattern designed to mitigate thepressure applied to a specific anatomical region by the support surface1116.

The elevated side supports 1108 can be configured to actively orient thespecific anatomical region of the individual 1102 over the series ofchambers. For example, the elevated side supports 1108 may beresponsible for actively orienting the specific anatomical regionwidthwise over the epicenter of the geometric pattern. The specificanatomical region may be the sacral region, scapular region, or thecephalic/cranial region. However, the specific anatomical region couldbe any region of the body that is susceptible to pressure, and thus theformation of pressure ulcers. The elevated side supports 1108 may beconfigured to be ergonomically comfortable. For example, the elevatedside supports 1108 may include a recess designed to accommodate theforearm, which permits pressure to be offloaded from the elbow.

The elevated side supports 1108 may be significantly larger in size thanthe chambers of the pressure-mitigation apparatus 1106. Accordingly, theelevated side supports 1108 may create a barrier that restricts lateralmovement of the individual 1102. In some embodiments, the elevated sidesupports 1108 are approximately 2 inches, 3 inches, 4 inches, or 6inches taller in height as compared to the average height of an inflatedchamber. Because the elevated side supports 1106 straddle the individual1102, the elevated side supports 1108 can act as barriers formaintaining the position of the individual 1102 on top of thepressure-mitigation apparatus 1106.

In some embodiments, the inner side walls of the elevated side supports1108 form, following inflation, a firm surface at a steep angle oforientation with respect to the pressure-mitigation apparatus 1106. Forexample, the inner side walls may be on a plane of approximately 115degrees, plus or minus 24 degrees, from the substantially horizontalplane defined by the upper surface of the pressure-mitigation apparatus1106. These steep inner side walls can form a channel that naturallypositions the individual 1102 over the chambers of thepressure-mitigation apparatus 1106. Thus, inflation of the elevated sidesupports 1108 may actively force the individual 1102 into theappropriate position for mitigating pressure by orienting the individual1102 in the correct location with respect to the chambers of thepressure-mitigation apparatus 1106.

After the initial inflation cycle has been completed, the pressure ofeach elevated side support 1108 may be lessened to increase comfort andprevent excessive force against the lateral sides of the individual1102. Oftentimes a medical professional (e.g., a physician, nurse, orcaregiver) will be present during the initial inflation cycle to ensurethe elevated side supports 1108 properly position the individual 1102over the pressure-mitigation apparatus 1106.

The controller 1112 can be configured to regulate the pressure of eachchamber included in the pressure-mitigation apparatus 1106 and/or eachelevated side support 1108 via a pressure device 1114 (e.g., an airpump) and multi-channel tubing 1110. For example, the chambers may becontrolled in a specific pattern to preserve blood flow and reducepressure applied to the individual 1102 when inflated (pressurized) anddeflated (depressurized) in a coordinated fashion by the controller1112. In some embodiments, the multi-channel tubing 1110 is connectedbetween the pressure-mitigation apparatus 1106 and the pressure device1114. Accordingly, the pressure-mitigation apparatus 1106 may be fluidlycoupled to a first end of the multi-channel tubing 1110, and thepressure device 1114 may be fluidly coupled to a second end of themulti-channel tubing 1110. In other embodiments, a first segment of themulti-channel tubing 1110 is connected between the pressure device 1114and the controller 1112 and a second segment of the multi-channel tubing1110 is connected between the controller 1112 and thepressure-mitigation apparatus 1106. In such embodiments, the pressuredevice 1114 and the pressure-mitigation apparatus 1106 can be fluidlyconnected to one another via the controller 1112.

As noted above, high-acuity patients are often admitted to hospitals totreat conditions that impact mobility, such as strokes and acute kidneyinjuries. However, impaired mobile can lead to vascular compression incertain anatomical regions of the human body, and the vascularcompression can lead to ischemia-reperfusion injuries (also referred toas “ischemic injuries” or “reperfusion injuries”). To prevent or addressischemia-reperfusion injuries, a pressure-mitigation apparatus may bepositioned between a human body and a support surface that appliespressure on certain anatomical region(s) of the human body.

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram of a process 1200 for deploying apressure-mitigation system designed to prevent and/or addressischemia-reperfusion injuries in accordance with embodiments of thepresent technology. Initially, an individual can acquire apressure-mitigation apparatus to be placed between a human body and asupport surface (step 1201). The individual may be the person who willbe treated by the pressure-mitigation system or some other person (e.g.,a physician, nurse, or caregiver). In some embodiments, the individualselects the pressure-mitigation apparatus from amongst multiplepressure-mitigation apparatuses designed for different body types,anatomical regions, or support surfaces.

The individual can also acquire an attachment apparatus associated withthe pressure-mitigation apparatus and/or the support surface (step1202). For example, if the pressure-mitigation apparatus is designed forhuman bodies in the prone position, then the individual may acquire anattachment apparatus designed for an elongated support surface. Asanother example, if the pressure-mitigation apparatus is designed forhuman bodies in the sitting position, then the individual may acquire anattachment apparatus designed for a nonelongated support surface.

The individual can then secure the lower surface of the attachmentapparatus to the support surface (step 1203). As noted above, theattachment apparatus can be comprised of at least one material thatprovides some tackiness. In some embodiments, the lower surface of theattachment apparatus is comprised of a material, such as siliconerubber, with sufficient tackiness to naturally limit movement. In someembodiments, the lower surface of the attachment apparatus includes anadhesive film with sufficient tackiness to limit movement through morepermanent adhesion. In such embodiments, the individual may need toremove a cover or a film from the bottom surface of the attachmentapparatus before securing the attachment apparatus to the supportsurface. In some embodiments, the attachment apparatus includes one ormore design features, such as perforations or notches, through whichsecurement components can extend. Examples of securement componentsinclude hooks, snaps, tabs, and other structural features.

The individual can then secure the pressure-mitigation apparatus to theupper surface of the attachment apparatus (step 1204). In someembodiments, the upper surface of the attachment apparatus and/or thelower surface of the pressure-mitigation apparatus is comprised of amaterial, such as silicone rubber, with sufficient tackiness tonaturally limit movement. In some embodiments, the upper surface of theattachment apparatus and/or the lower surface of the pressure-mitigationapparatus includes an adhesive film with sufficient tackiness to limitmovement through more permanent adhesion. In such embodiments, theindividual may need to remove a cover or a film from the upper surfaceof the attachment apparatus and/or the lower surface of thepressure-mitigation apparatus before securing the pressure-mitigationapparatus to the attachment apparatus. In some embodiments, theattachment apparatus and/or the pressure-mitigation apparatus includesone or more design features, such as perforations or notches, throughwhich securement components can extend. For example, a protrudingfeature accessible along the support surface may extend through aperforation through the attachment apparatus and a perforation throughthe pressure-mitigation apparatus.

The individual can then connect the pressure-mitigation apparatus to acontroller (step 1205). For example, as shown in FIG. 11 , theindividual may fluidly couple the controller to the pressure-mitigationapparatus using multi-channel tubing. In some embodiments, thecontroller may be configured to automatically determine whether apressure-mitigation apparatus has been connected. For example, bymonitoring the connection between a fluid interface accessible along theexterior surface of the controller and the pressure-mitigationapparatus, the controller can detect which type of pressure-mitigationapparatus has been connected.

Thereafter, the human body to be treated using the pressure-mitigationsystem can be arranged over the pressure-mitigation apparatus (step1206). The pressure-mitigation apparatus may include a geometric patternof chambers designed to mitigate the pressure on a specific anatomicalregion of the human body. Accordingly, the human body may need to beoriented over a particular region (also referred to as a “targetregion”) of the pressure-mitigation apparatus. As shown in FIGS. 1A-2B,the target region may be visually distinguishable along the uppersurface of the pressure-mitigation apparatus.

The controller can then cause the chambers of the pressure-mitigationapparatus to be inflated in accordance with a pattern (step 1207). Morespecifically, the controller can cause the pressure on anatomicalregion(s) of the human body to be varied by controllably inflatingchamber(s), deflating chamber(s), or any combination thereof. Thepattern may correspond to the pressure-mitigation apparatus. Forexample, upon detecting that a given pressure-mitigation apparatus hasbeen connected to the controller, the controller may examine a libraryof patterns corresponding to different pressure-mitigation apparatuseshaving different counts/arrangements of chambers to identify theappropriate pattern.

Unless contrary to physical possibility, it is envisioned that the stepsdescribed above may be performed in various sequences and combinations.For example, the individual may secure the pressure-mitigation apparatusto the attachment apparatus before securing the attachment apparatus tothe support surface. Other steps may also be included in someembodiments. For example, before causing the chambers of thepressure-mitigation apparatus to be inflated in accordance with thepattern, the controller may prompt an operator to specify acharacteristic of the human body to be treated by thepressure-mitigation system, such as the size, weight, degree ofimmobility, or position.

Processing System

FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a processingsystem 1300 in which at least some operations described herein can beimplemented. For example, some components of the processing system 1300may be hosted on a controller (e.g., controller 1112 of FIG. 11 )responsible for controlling a pressure-mitigation apparatus (e.g.,pressure-mitigation apparatus 1106 of FIG. 11 ).

The processing system 1300 may include one or more central processingunits (“processors”) 1302, main memory 1306, non-volatile memory 1310,network adapter 1312 (e.g., network interface), video display 1318,input/output devices 1320, control device 1322 (e.g., keyboard andpointing devices), drive unit 1324 including a storage medium 1326, andsignal generation device 1330 that are communicatively connected to abus 1316. The bus 1316 is illustrated as an abstraction that representsone or more physical buses and/or point-to-point connections that areconnected by appropriate bridges, adapters, or controllers. The bus1316, therefore, can include a system bus, a Peripheral ComponentInterconnect (PCI) bus or PCI-Express bus, a HyperTransport or industrystandard architecture (ISA) bus, a small computer system interface(SCSI) bus, a universal serial bus (USB), IIC (I2C) bus, or an Instituteof Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standard 1394 bus (alsoreferred to as “Firewire”).

The processing system 1300 may share a similar computer processorarchitecture as that of a desktop computer, tablet computer, personaldigital assistant (PDA), mobile phone, game console, music player,wearable electronic device (e.g., a watch or fitness tracker),network-connected (“smart”) device (e.g., a television or home assistantdevice), virtual/augmented reality systems (e.g., a head-mounteddisplay), or another electronic device capable of executing a set ofinstructions (sequential or otherwise) that specify action(s) to betaken by the processing system 1300.

While the main memory 1306, non-volatile memory 1310, and storage medium1326 (also called a “machine-readable medium”) are shown to be a singlemedium, the term “machine-readable medium” and “storage medium” shouldbe taken to include a single medium or multiple media (e.g., acentralized/distributed database and/or associated caches and servers)that store one or more sets of instructions 1328. The term“machine-readable medium” and “storage medium” shall also be taken toinclude any medium that is capable of storing, encoding, or carrying aset of instructions for execution by the processing system 1300.

In general, the routines executed to implement the embodiments of thedisclosure may be implemented as part of an operating system or aspecific application, component, program, object, module, or sequence ofinstructions (collectively referred to as “computer programs”). Thecomputer programs typically comprise one or more instructions (e.g.,instructions 1304, 1308, 1328) set at various times in various memoryand storage devices in a computing device. When read and executed by theone or more processors 1302, the instruction(s) cause the processingsystem 1300 to perform operations to execute elements involving thevarious aspects of the disclosure.

Moreover, while embodiments have been described in the context of fullyfunctioning computing devices, those skilled in the art will appreciatethat the various embodiments are capable of being distributed as aprogram product in a variety of forms. The disclosure applies regardlessof the particular type of machine or computer-readable media used toactually effect the distribution.

Further examples of machine-readable storage media, machine-readablemedia, or computer-readable media include recordable-type media such asvolatile and non-volatile memory devices 1310, floppy and otherremovable disks, hard disk drives, optical disks (e.g., Compact DiskRead-Only Memory (CD-ROMS), Digital Versatile Disks (DVDs)), andtransmission-type media such as digital and analog communication links.

The network adapter 1312 enables the processing system 1300 to mediatedata in a network 1314 with an entity that is external to the processingsystem 1300 through any communication protocol supported by theprocessing system 1300 and the external entity. The network adapter 1312can include a network adaptor card, a wireless network interface card, arouter, an access point, a wireless router, a switch, a multilayerswitch, a protocol converter, a gateway, a bridge, bridge router, a hub,a digital media receiver, and/or a repeater.

The network adapter 1312 may include a firewall that governs and/ormanages permission to access/proxy data in a computer network, andtracks varying levels of trust between different machines and/orapplications. The firewall can be any number of modules having anycombination of hardware and/or software components able to enforce apredetermined set of access rights between a particular set of machinesand applications, machines and machines, and/or applications andapplications (e.g., to regulate the flow of traffic and resource sharingbetween these entities). The firewall may additionally manage and/orhave access to an access control list that details permissions includingthe access and operation rights of an object by an individual, amachine, and/or an application, and the circumstances under which thepermission rights stand.

The techniques introduced here can be implemented by programmablecircuitry (e.g., one or more microprocessors), software and/or firmware,special-purpose hardwired (i.e., non-programmable) circuitry, or acombination of such forms. Special-purpose circuitry can be in the formof one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs),programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays(FPGAs), etc.

EXAMPLES

Several aspects of the present technology are set forth in the followingexamples.

1. A system comprising:

-   -   a pressure-mitigation apparatus that includes a geometric        arrangement of inflatable chambers formed by interconnections        between a top layer and a bottom layer,        -   wherein the inflatable chambers are configured to mitigate            contact pressure applied to a human body by a support            surface when pressure in the inflatable chambers is varied;            and    -   an attachment apparatus for securing the pressure-mitigation        apparatus to the support surface.

2. The system of example 1

-   -   wherein the top layer is comprised of a first material        configured for direct contact with the human body, and    -   wherein the bottom layer is comprised of a second material        configured for direct contact with the attachment apparatus.

3. The system of example 1 wherein the attachment apparatus is comprisedof a material that provides sufficient tackiness to naturally limitmovement of the pressure-mitigation apparatus in relation to the supportsurface.

4. The system of example 3 wherein the material is polyurethane,polypropylene, silicone, or a rubber compound.

5. The system of example 1 wherein the attachment apparatus includes afirst adhesive film disposed along a top surface that contacts thebottom layer of the pressure-mitigation apparatus.

6. The system of example 5 wherein the attachment apparatus includes asecond adhesive film disposed along a bottom surface that contacts thesupport surface.

7. The system of example 1 wherein the attachment apparatus includes atop layer that contacts the bottom layer of the pressure-mitigationapparatus, and a bottom layer that contacts the support surface.

8. The system of example 7 wherein the attachment apparatus furtherincludes a pliable core disposed between the top and bottom layers.

9. The system of example 8 wherein the pliable core is comprised ofpolyurethane foam, polyethylene foam, latex, wool, cotton, a wovenfabric, a non-woven fabric, natural fibers, or synthetic fibers.

10. A method for manufacturing a pressure-mitigation apparatus designedto mitigate pressure applied to a human body by a support surface, themethod comprising:

-   -   acquiring a first sheet comprised of a first material;    -   acquiring a second sheet comprised of a second material;    -   creating a cavity by forming an interconnection along a        periphery of the first and second sheets; and    -   creating a geometric pattern of chambers by forming at least one        additional interconnection between the first and second sheets,        -   wherein the chambers are formed such that each chamber can            be independently pressurized.

11. The method of example 10 wherein the first material isliquid-impervious material configured for direct contact with a humanbody.

12. The method of example 10 further comprising:

-   -   forming perforations in the first sheet to allow the passage of        fluids through the first sheet into the cavity.

13. The method of example 12 further comprising:

-   -   securing a liquid-impervious lining to an interior surface of        the first sheet to inhibit the fluids from entering the        chambers.

14. The method of example 10 wherein the second material is aliquid-impervious material configured for direct contact with a supportsurface or an attachment apparatus

15. The method of example 10 further comprising:

-   -   applying an antimicrobial coating to an exterior surface of the        first sheet, the second sheet, or any combination thereof.

16. The method of example 10 further comprising:

-   -   applying a non-slip coating to an exterior surface of the first        sheet, the second sheet, or any combination thereof.

17. A method for manufacturing an attachment apparatus designed tosecure a pressure-mitigation apparatus to a support surface, the methodcomprising:

-   -   acquire a roll of pliable material that provides sufficient        tackiness to naturally limit movement of the pressure-mitigation        apparatus in relation to the support surface;    -   cutting the pliable material into a first segment and a second        segment;    -   creating a cavity by forming an interconnection along a        periphery of the first and second segments; and    -   inserting a pliable core into the cavity.

18. The method of example 17 further comprising:

applying an adhesive coating to an exterior surface of the firstsegment, the second segment, or any combination thereof

19. The method of example 17 further comprising:

forming perforations in the first segment to allow the passage of fluidsinto the cavity.

20. The method of example 17 wherein the pliable core is comprised ofpolyurethane foam, polyethylene foam, latex, wool, cotton, a wovenfabric, a non-woven fabric, natural fibers, or synthetic fibers.

CONCLUSION

The above detailed descriptions of embodiments of the technology are notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the technology to the precise formdisclosed above. Although specific embodiments of, and examples for, thetechnology are described above for illustrative purposes, variousequivalent modifications are possible within the scope of the technologyas those skilled in the relevant art will recognize. For example,although steps are presented in a given order, alternative embodimentsmay perform steps in a different order. The various embodimentsdescribed herein may also be combined to provide further embodiments.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that specific embodiments ofthe technology have been described herein for purposes of illustration,but well-known structures and functions have not been shown or describedin detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of theembodiments of the technology. Where the context permits, singular orplural terms may also include the plural or singular term, respectively.

Moreover, unless the word “or” is expressly limited to mean only asingle item exclusive from the other items in reference to a list of twoor more items, then the use of “or” in such a list is to be interpretedas including (a) any single item in the list, (b) all of the items inthe list, or (c) any combination of the items in the list. Additionally,the term “comprising” is used throughout to mean including at least therecited feature(s) such that any greater number of the same featureand/or additional types of other features are not precluded. It willalso be appreciated that specific embodiments have been described hereinfor purposes of illustration, but that various modifications may be madewithout deviating from the technology. Further, while advantagesassociated with certain embodiments of the technology have beendescribed in the context of those embodiments, other embodiments mayalso exhibit such advantages, and not all embodiments need necessarilyexhibit such advantages to fall within the scope of the technology.Accordingly, the disclosure and associated technology can encompassother embodiments not expressly shown or described herein.

I/We claim:
 1. A method for manufacturing a pressure-mitigation apparatus to be used to systematically alleviate pressure applied to a living body by an underlying surface, the method comprising: acquiring a first sheet that comprises a first material that is air permeable and liquid impermeable; acquiring a second sheet that comprises a second material that is air impermeable and liquid impermeable; creating a cavity by forming an interconnection along a periphery of the first and second sheets; forming additional interconnections between the first and second sheets so as to segment the cavity into a geometric pattern of chambers; and applying a coating to an exterior surface of the first sheet, the second sheet, or the first and second sheets.
 2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: forming perforations in the first sheet to allow for the passage of liquid into the chambers during use.
 3. The method of claim 2, further comprising: forming perforations in the second sheet to allow for the passage of the liquid out of the chambers during use.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the second material provides tackiness to naturally limit movement of the pressure-mitigation apparatus in relation to the underlying surface.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the interconnection and additional interconnections are formed via application of heat.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the interconnection and additional interconnections are formed via application of an adhesive.
 7. The method of claim 1, wherein the chambers are intertwined to form the geometric pattern that is designed to accommodate internal anatomy of an anatomical region on which the pressure is to be alleviated.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein said applying comprises: applying, to an exterior surface of the second sheet, an adhesive coating that is configured to inhibit movement of the pressure-mitigation apparatus in relation to the underlying surface, and applying, to an exterior surface of the first sheet, an antimicrobial coating that is configured to inhibit growth of fungi, mold, and bacteria.
 9. The method of claim 1, further comprising: securing an impervious lining along an interior surface of the first sheet to inhibit passage of liquid into the chambers during use.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the impervious lining comprises polyurethane.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the second sheet comprises polyurethane, polypropylene, silicone, or a rubber compound.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the additional interconnections further segment the cavity the cavity into a pair of supports that extend longitudinally along opposing sides of the chambers.
 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising: filling each support of the pair of supports with a pliable material.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the pliable material comprises cotton, latex, polyurethane foam, or a combination thereof.
 15. A method for manufacturing a pressure-mitigation apparatus to be used to systematically alleviate pressure applied to a living body by an underlying surface, the method comprising: forming an interconnection along a periphery of a first sheet comprised of an air-permeable material and a second sheet comprised of an air-impermeable material, so as to create a cavity therebetween; forming additional interconnections between the first and second sheets, so as to segment the cavity into a geometric pattern of chambers; and fluidly coupling valves to the chambers to allow for control of airflow into each chamber to vary pressure therein during use.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the chambers are intertwined such that the valves are arranged along a single side of the pressure-mitigation apparatus.
 17. The method of claim 15, further comprising: applying, to an exterior surface of the second sheet, an adhesive coating that is configured to inhibit movement of the pressure-mitigation apparatus in relation to the underlying surface.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the adhesive coating comprises a material that provides tackiness to naturally limit movement of the pressure-mitigation apparatus in relation to the underlying surface.
 19. A method for manufacturing a pressure-mitigation apparatus to be used to systematically alleviate pressure applied to a living body by an underlying surface, the method comprising: forming an interconnection along a periphery of a first sheet comprised of an air-permeable material and a second sheet comprised of an air-impermeable material, so as to create a cavity therebetween; forming additional interconnections between the first and second sheets, so as to segment the cavity into at least three chambers that are intertwined in a geometric pattern; and applying, to an exterior surface of the second sheet, an adhesive coating that is configured to inhibit movement of the pressure-mitigation apparatus in relation to the underlying surface.
 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: forming perforations in the first sheet to allow for the passage of liquid into the chambers during use; and forming perforations in the second sheet to allow for the passage of the liquid out of the chambers during use. 